To the Editor:

Can you believe whats happening to Warren Watson since he decided to run for reelection as an Independent? Im not here to make comment on his reasons for abandoning the Democratic party. I just want to say that the barrage of letters from Democrats criticizing his decision and the reasons for doing so is just over the top.

He opted to run as an Independent, spurning both political parties. Im not sure, but I didnt notice any letters from Republicans.

It appears to me that the Democratic party may be on a witch hunt. Their pride has been hurt and the only thing they know how to do is attack the messenger. If I didnt know better one could think than Rahm Emmanuel was behind the whole thing, but I could be wrong.

But lets face it, the brutal attacks being made by the Democrats at the national level sets a bad example for the state and local party members. I guess the locals figure if those in Washington can do it then it should be O.K. for them to do it. Shame. Shame. Shame.

Since Watson isnt the only one to abandon the Democratic party, Tommy Melton did so earlier, there may be more credence behind his reasons for leaving than meets the eye. However, thats for the voters to decide.

Ah, thats it. Maybe the Democrats are afraid the voters will believe him. So theyre using their letter attack to try to fend off the bad publicity they feel may hurt their chance to hold all five seats again.

But again, why is it I havent seen letters from Republicans trying to defend their turf? Are they really the party of nice people? I dont know, but I guess well find out at election time.

In the meantime, how about leaving the messenger alone. Polk County deserves better.

Karl Kachadoorian